
When every performance is both an ending and a beginning, where students become professionals, where families become audiences, where Columbia learns what it means to reach toward something timeless together. At Columbia Classical Ballet, this isn't just a ballet.
It's a revolution disguised as tradition.
Artistic Director | Joseph Philliips

THE CAPITAL'S BALLET COMPANY
2026-27
SEASON
Become a Part of Our Artistic Journey!
Support our mission and enjoy exclusive benefits: Friend - $100: 1 Ticket to each Performance; Recognition in our Programs. Supporter - $250: 2 Tickets to each Performance; Recognition in our Programs. Patron - $500: 4 Tickets; Invitation to the Annual Gala; Recognition in our Programs. Benefactor - $750: 6 Tickets; Invitation to the Annual Gala; Recognition in our Programs. Visionary - $1000: 10 Tickets; Invitation to the Annual Gala; Premium Recognition in our Programs. Champion - $1500: 12 Tickets; Invitation to the Annual Gala; Premium Recognition in our Programs.

A Message from Our Artistic Director, Joseph Phillips
Dear Ballet Lovers, The essence of ballet is about breaking barriers and creating connections. My early experiences dancing in community productions sparked a lifelong passion that has taken me from Columbia stages to the world-renowned Mariinsky Theatre. As the Artistic Director of Columbia Classical Ballet, my vision is to cultivate an environment where emerging talents thrive alongside experienced artists. This upcoming season is a testament to our commitment to creativity and community spirit. Together, we'll navigate the delicate balance of tradition and modernity, with each dancer playing a vital role in our shared artistic vision. Our performances are an invitation to experience the transformative power of dance, and we are dedicated to presenting world-class ballet that enriches our community's cultural landscape. Welcome to Columbia Classical Ballet, where every performance is more than just a show; it's a celebration of our passion for dance. Thank you for joining us on this extraordinary journey. With heartfelt gratitude, Joseph Phillips Artistic Director
Meet Our Board and Staff
EXECUTIVE BOARD CHAIRMAN / CFO LEE LUMPKIN VICE-CHAIRMAN MYRA NELSON PRESIDENT / TREASURER SHEILA SINATRA VICE-PRESIDENT LISA SMARR SECRETARY BOB SZADEK DIRECTORS PHILLIP LAUGHRIDGE LEIGH MORGAN LUMPKIN JODI MOSELEY GABBY PETERSON DR. ANNE RICHARDSON MELISSA WANDOVER REBECCA FAITH WARTHEN CONSTANCE WILLIAMS COLUMBIA CLASSICAL BALLET STAFF ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JOSEPH PHILLIPS RESIDENT CHOREOGRAPHER IRENE LIU REHEARSAL DIRECTOR SERGEI ZOLOTAREV COMPANY MANAGER MELISSA WANDOVER
Mission Statement: Columbia Classical Ballet is dedicated to presenting exceptional ballet performances that inspire and educate. We attract top-tier artists from around the globe to ensure our audience enjoys the finest classical and contemporary ballet. Our dedication goes beyond performances as we actively engage in educational outreach initiatives across South Carolina.

We are now accepting auditions for the 2026/2027 season. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume, headshots, and audition videos to info@columbiaclassicalballet.com.



